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Speed-related crashes

Both nationally and in Wisconsin speed-related crashes resulted in increased numbers of fatalities in 2001. There were 18,089 speed related motor vehicle crashes in Wisconsin in 2001. Speed related crashes resulted in 248 fatalities (an increase from 231 fatalities in 2000) and 1,452 incapacitating injuries.

When drivers speed, their ability to maneuver the vehicle safely decreases, especially around curves and objects and under bad weather conditions. Speeding extends the distance necessary to stop a vehicle, and increases the distance a vehicle travels while the driver reacts to a dangerous situation. Add alcohol impairment to this speed scenario and the likelihood of a crash increases even further.

For drivers involved in fatal crashes, young males are the most likely to be speeding. Thirty-six percent of the male drivers 15-20 years old who were involved in fatal crashes were speeding at the time of the crash.

(The Wisconsin Department of Transportation defines a "speed related crash" as a crash in which at least one driver involved in the crash received a citation for speeding or was listed on the MV4000 as "exceeding the speed limit" or "speed to fast for conditions." The MV4000 is Wisconsin's crash report form completed by law enforcement officers.)

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Questions about the content of this page:
Patricia Hansen, patricia.hansen@dot.state.wi.us
Last modified: March 8, 2005